Definition

Connective tissue separates the pelvic organs. The tissue, called fascia, is attached to nearby muscles. The fascia and muscles support the bladder, vagina, and rectum. Defects in the fascia can cause cystoceles and rectoceles.

In a cystocele, there is a defect in the fascia between the bladder and vagina. This allows a part of the bladder wall to bulge into the vagina. There are three grades of cystocele:

Grade 1: mildest form, where the bladder drops only partway into the vagina

Grade 2: moderate form, where the bladder has sunken far enough to reach the opening of the vagina

Grade 3: most severe form, where the bladder sags through the opening of the vagina

REFERENCES:

A healthy pregnancy for women with diabetes. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Published December 2011. Accessed October 27, 2014.

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